Bangor Air National Guard Base Named Finalist for New KC-46A Tanker Squadron
The Bangor Air National Guard Base in Maine has been selected as one of four finalists nationwide to receive a new KC-46A air refueling squadron. This announcement was made by Senators Susan Collins and Angus King of Maine. The new squadron would replace the base’s aging KC-135 Stratotankers, which are currently assigned to the 101st Air Refueling Wing. The KC-46A Pegasus is an advanced aircraft with superior refueling, cargo, and aeromedical evacuation capabilities compared to its predecessor. Initially, 14 bases were under consideration for this upgrade. If Bangor is ultimately selected, the first KC-46A aircraft are projected to arrive at the base in 2030. Further site analysis will be conducted on the four remaining bases, with the Air Force expected to make a final decision on their preferred site next year, in 2027.
